Declining since 2011, #4,539 for boys today.
Popularity of Abhay since 1977
Babies named Abhay per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 7 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 66 |
| 2000s | 259 |
| 2010s | 396 |
| 2020s | 187 |
Meaning & origin
Abhay is a name of Sanskrit origin meaning 'fearless,' drawing from the ancient Indian linguistic tradition of composing virtues into given names. First recorded in the United States in 1977, the name reached its peak popularity in 2016, but has been declining since 2011. In 2025, it ranked 4,539th overall, with about 1 in every 77,640 newborn boys receiving the name. The name is most common in Texas, reflecting the state's large South Asian population. While the trajectory indicates falling usage, Abhay remains a meaningful choice for families seeking a name with deep cultural roots and a powerful, positive meaning.
Abhay is derived from the Sanskrit prefix 'a-' (not) and 'bhaya' (fear), literally meaning 'fearless.' It has been a common given name in India for centuries, often used by families of diverse religious backgrounds, particularly Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist communities. The name appears in ancient Hindu texts, including the Upanishads, as an attribute of the divine.
Where Abhay is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Abhi
Variants: Abhaya
Sibling names for Abhay
Names that share Abhay's style, for a brother or sister.
